I’m home from my annual pilgrimage to southern California. Not only did I spend a lovely weekend at Costume College, I also extended my vacation to explore some more around L.A. I have fun things to share from both the Getty Villa and the Getty Center, as well as the Huntington Library. Also, I may have bought more fabric. Oops. But first, Costume College!

On Friday, after Kendra’s demo class for her new book (review to come, it’s fantastic!), I wore my 1790s pink open robe. I almost didn’t bring it since I wore it last year, but I’m glad I changed my mind. It’s one of those costumes that is just a blast to wear. The obscene amount of taffeta I put into the skirt makes for a super dramatic look. I changed up the accessories, retrimming my poufy cap and wearing new satin slippers I dyed myself. In case you can’t tell by the expression on my face, I am absurdly proud of this fact.

For the Ice Cream Social later that evening, I kept my cross-front dress as a base, adding a new blue figured silk spencer and green taffeta bonnet, which I will discuss in detail later. It’s amazing how different the same dress can look by swapping out the accessories and changing the hair.

Saturday I wore modern clothes for class and my brocade francaise for the Gala. I completely forgot to get photos of my outfit, but I’ve worn it enough now that I’m not upset.

Sunday it was back to the 1790s with my new print gown. Again, I wore my ridiculous poufy cap with new ribbons (Have I mentioned this is the greatest accessory ever?) and carried my favorite reticule. I’m rather pleased with this dress in the end and I feel a very strong need to wear this to an 18th century picnic. Since I don’t have any in my near future, clearly, I need to plan one!